Rajasthan Desert Tour

Destination: Mandawa (Shekhawati Region)
Activities: Drive to Mandawa, explore havelis, overnight stay
Distance: ~250 km (5-6 hours by road)
Accommodation: Heritage hotel in Mandawa

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic drive to Mandawa, a small town in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, renowned as an “open-air art gallery” due to its exquisitely painted havelis. Upon arrival, check into a heritage hotel, often a restored haveli itself, offering a taste of Rajasthani royalty. In the afternoon, set out on a guided walking tour to explore Mandawa’s famous havelis, such as the Chokhani Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, and Binsidhar Newatia Haveli. These 150-200-year-old mansions are adorned with intricate frescoes depicting mythological scenes, daily life, and historical events. Spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the charm of this quaint town, followed by an overnight stay.

Highlights:

• Scenic drive through rural Rajasthan

• Guided tour of Mandawa’s frescoed havelis

• Stay in a heritage hotel with Rajasthani architecture

Destination: Bikaner
Activities: Drive to Bikaner, visit Junagarh Fort and Karni Mata Temple, overnight stay
Distance: ~200 km (4-5 hours by road)
Accommodation: 3-star or heritage hotel in Bikaner

Post breakfast, depart for Bikaner, a vibrant desert city founded in 1488 by Rao Bika. En route, enjoy the changing landscapes of the Thar Desert. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the afternoon, embark on a guided city tour, starting with the magnificent Junagarh Fort, built in 1593 by Raja Rai Singh. This fort, unlike many others in Rajasthan, is not perched on a hill but is a stunning example of Rajput architecture with its ornate palaces like Anup Mahal and Chandra Mahal. Next, visit the unique Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple) in Deshnok, 30 km from Bikaner, where thousands of rats are revered as sacred. Optionally, visit the National Camel Research Centre to learn about camel breeding and enjoy camel milk products. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Highlights:

• Visit the architecturally rich Junagarh Fort

• Experience the unique Karni Mata Temple

• Optional visit to the National Camel Research Centre

Destination: Jaisalmer
Activities: Drive to Jaisalmer, visit Gadisar Lake, overnight stay
Distance: ~330 km (6-7 hours by road)
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Jaisalmer

After breakfast, set off for Jaisalmer, the “Golden City” nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert. The long drive offers glimpses of the arid desert landscape and rural Rajasthani life. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. In the late afternoon, visit Gadisar Lake, a man-made reservoir surrounded by temples, ghats, and cenotaphs, offering a serene setting for a leisurely walk or boating (optional). As the sun sets, the lake reflects the golden hues of Jaisalmer’s sandstone architecture, creating a picturesque scene. Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Highlights:

• Scenic desert drive to Jaisalmer

• Visit the tranquil Gadisar Lake

• Introduction to Jaisalmer’s golden sandstone charm

Destination: Jaisalmer (Sam Sand Dunes)
Activities: City tour, desert safari, cultural evening, overnight stay in desert camp
Distance: ~40 km to Sam Sand Dunes (1 hour by road)
Accommodation: Swiss tent camp at Sam Sand Dunes

Begin the day with breakfast, followed by a full-day exploration of Jaisalmer’s iconic landmarks. Start with the Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as Sonar Quila (Golden Fort), built in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal. This living fort, constructed from yellow sandstone, houses shops, homes, and temples within its walls. Next, visit the intricately carved Patwon Ki Haveli, Nathmal Ki Haveli, and Salim Singh Ki Haveli, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of Jaisalmer’s merchants. In the afternoon, drive to the Sam Sand Dunes for an unforgettable desert experience. Embark on a camel safari, riding through the golden dunes to witness a breathtaking sunset. As night falls, enjoy a cultural evening at the desert camp, featuring Rajasthani folk music, Kalbelia dance, and a traditional dinner with dishes like dal baati churma. Spend the night in a comfortable Swiss tent under the starlit desert sky.

Highlights:

• Explore the living Jaisalmer Fort and ornate havelis

• Thrilling camel safari at Sam Sand Dunes

• Cultural evening with Rajasthani music, dance, and cuisine

Destination: Jodhpur
Activities: Drive to Jodhpur, visit Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada, overnight stay
Distance: ~285 km (5-6 hours by road)
Accommodation: 3-star or heritage hotel Jodhpur

After breakfast at the desert camp, bid farewell to the Thar Desert and drive to Jodhpur, the “Blue City” founded by Rao Jodha in 1459. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Jodhpur’s iconic landmarks. Visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s largest and most well-preserved forts, perched 400 feet above the city. Explore its palaces, such as Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal, and enjoy panoramic views of Jodhpur’s blue-painted houses. Next, visit Jaswant Thada, a marble cenotaph built in 1899, often called the “Taj Mahal of Rajasthan” for its intricate design. Optionally, stroll through the bustling Sardar Market near the Clock Tower to shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Highlights:

• Visit the imposing Mehrangarh Fort with stunning views

• Explore the serene Jaswant Thada cenotaph

• Optional shopping at Sardar Market

Destination: Jodhpur to Delhi (or onward destination)
Activities: Optional Umaid Bhawan Palace visit, departure
Distance: N/A
Accommodation: None

After breakfast, check out from the hotel. If time permits, visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace, a magnificent residence of the Jodhpur royal family, part of which is now a museum and luxury hotel. Later, you will be transferred to Jodhpur Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey to Delhi or another destination. The tour concludes with cherished memories of Rajasthan’s desert landscapes, royal forts, and vibrant culture.

Highlights:

• Optional visit to the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace

• Seamless departure transfer

• Fond farewell with unforgettable memories